The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Merrill Foto News, its publishers, Editor, or staff.
To the Editor:
There seems to be some frustration about Pine Crest in the community, specifically that it’s not financially self-sustaining and has reduced the number of beds. The new rehabilitation wing has helped stabilize the finances, but the anticipated “silver tsunami” of Baby Boomers was diverted by various government programs that help keep the elderly at home. And COVID has been (and continues to be) a huge problem.
There are three basic levels of revenue at Pine Crest: private pay, Medicare, and Medicaid. Medicaid pays the least and never covers the actual cost of care. That’s why private nursing homes don’t want Medicaid residents. That’s why not-for-profit facilities like Pine Crest end up with 70% or more of people on Medicaid. The only way to cover the deficit is from the tax levy.
In the end, it comes down to a matter of public morality: Do we take care of those folks who need nursing home care but who don’t have the means to cover the cost? I believe the answer is yes. If we don’t, who will?
– Paul Gilk
Merrill, Wis.
To the Editor:
I am writing in regards to the occasional feuding that takes place between the City Government and the City Council. To begin with,those that are hired for key City positions must have certain qualifications; namely education and experience. These people must have an understanding of how various City departments work together to serve the community and to problem solve. They must also understand that a City should be run like a business, efficiently, responsibly, and with an eye toward the future. A City must spend money to make money—this means investing in the areas that grow a City, such as expanding the property tax base, which results in more property tax, leading to City improvements and maintenance. On the other hand, those that run for City Council are NOT required to have the qualifications of City employees. All that is required for a seat on the Council is to live in the City and to earn enough votes. As a result, the Councilmen that are elected often do NOT have an understanding of how a City works, that money must be invested, that property tax dollars are THE main source of revenue for a City, TI Districts and TI Funding, and yet are able to vote on such matters. I have seen this lack of understanding at various City meetings and I believe THIS to be the main source of feuds within the City of Merrill.
Sincerely,
– Heather O’Neill
Town of Harding, Wis.
To the Editor:
The holidays are a good time to say “Thank you” and count your blessings. On Oct. 29, we had a terrible tornado do a lot of damage in Pine River on County Rd. P and Shady Ln. That night we had caring neighbors checking if everyone was safe and clearing roads of trees and debris. Wisconsin Public Service came and got our power back on in two days.
The next day Christian Aid had many local Mennonites cut trees and clean up brush at no cost. Area fire departments and road crews came to clean up.
During the summer, family, friends, and neighbors spent days putting our neighborhood back together. Contractors, electricians, painters, and many others did good work at a fair price to help us out. Insurance agents and companies worked hard and fast to get our needs met.
It will take another summer or two to put us back together. Many of us will have to plant trees and flowers after construction is done, while the friendships we’ve formed will continue to grow.
“Thank you” and “God bless you” to all who worked together.
– Gail Westberg
Merrill, Wis.
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